Marvel Blade reboot development issues

Director Bassam Tariq has provided new details regarding his involvement with the scrapped Marvel Studios ‘Blade’ reboot. Tariq, who was set to direct the Mahershala Ali-led project, revealed that he spent approximately 18 months in pre-production, which included relocating his family to Atlanta.

Tariq confirmed that his version of the film was intended to be a period piece set in the 1920s. He noted that costume designer Ruth Carter later utilized some of the unused costumes from the project for the film ‘Sinners’. The production reportedly included significant set pieces, such as a railway set.

While the specific iteration of the film led by Tariq was halted, some elements have surfaced elsewhere. Ali has reportedly utilized the sword training intended for the role in other projects, and the creative collaboration between the director and lead actor continues in different cinematic endeavors.

The production has faced significant development hurdles since its 2019 announcement. Following Tariq’s departure in 2022, Yann Demange was hired to direct the project but also eventually exited. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has previously commented on the difficulties surrounding the film’s development.